Gambling and gaming

Advice on gambling and gambling-like experiences for young people.

Gambling and gambling-like experiences are so widespread that young people often see gambling as a normal part of everyday life, including sports.

Gambling

Gambling advertisements send messages that gambling is fun, exciting and a way to join in with others and get rich quickly.

A young person might have a gambling problem if they:

  • have sudden changes in the amount of money they have
  • are short of money or are borrowing/taking money from family and friends
  • they are always tired, have low energy levels, changes in mood or sleeping patterns have changed
  • get irritable when away from gambling activities
  • are falling behind at school
  • are withdrawing from friends, social activities and events
  • have a positive attitude towards gambling
  • are preoccupied with video arcades, interested in gambling sites, sports results or TV poker, or simulated gambling apps or games
  • have a new focus on sports odds instead of sports itself
  • are secretive about gambling or in denial that there's a problem

Useful websites

Gaming

Online and social gambling is a large industry moving at a fast pace. It includes games that young people may play on a console, websites or live streaming platforms.

Teenager with headphones on holding a Gaming handset

To keep gaming fun, make sure you:

  • block, report and mute people who troll or bully
  • take short breaks if gaming for a long time
  • don't share personal information online
  • avoid in-game purchases
  • check the age rating of any games you play

Online connections can make the world seem like a small and friendly place. Unfortunately, not everyone online is who they say they are.

As a young adult, you should be savvy on the basics of internet safety:

  • never use personal details as usernames
  • have secure passwords
  • never give away personal and location information when speaking to people you don't know

A few top tips for keeping yourself safe online and having reasonable screen time:

  • prioritise your offline activities over your online ones, like sleep and socialising with friends
  • know your PEGI ratings, they're there for a reason
  • have boundaries, if you wouldn't want your grandparents to see it don't post it
  • remember online activity and posting your views online will stay around for a very long time, future employers will search your online presence
  • you must tell someone if you are receiving unwanted or bullying messages
  • beware of hidden costs in apps, if you are asked for financial information for a free trial ensure you cancel before the end of the trial

Useful websites